Power grid backfeed protection apparatus

Abstract

A circuit breaker that functions like a double pole double throw (DPDT) switch is used to isolate the commercial power grid from an external power source. When in the “on” position the circuit breaker serves as a main power input circuit breaker allowing power from the commercial power grid to feed into existing wiring. In the “off” position the commercial power grid is disconnected and isolated from the existing wiring. Instead, the switch mechanism is connected to an external power source such as a generator. The generator can be safely operated without risking power backfeed into the commercial power grid.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims the benefit of prior filed co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60 / 222,459, filed on Aug. 2, 2000.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates to an apparatus for preventing power backfeed into the commercial power grid when a generator is used to provide power in the event of a commercial power failure.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]It is a common occurrence to lose commercial power during violent thunderstorms, hurricanes, and earthquakes. When there is a commercial power failure, for whatever reason, customers sometimes utilize portable generators to run electricity into their homes until the commercial power can be restored. However, using a generator in a home wired for commercial power can be dangerous if all safety precautions are not followed. Unfortunately, many homeowners do not follow all of the safety precautions and simply plug their generators into an outlet in their home ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0006]Presently, there are two ways to wire external power (e.g., a generator) into established wiring systems. One is to add external switching or transfer boxes. This is the safest, albeit, most complicated way. The second way is to jury rig a connection that risks backfeeding power into the commercial power grid. As described above, this is a potentially dangerous condition for those working to repair the commercial power grid. The present invention describes an apparatus that solves the backfeed problem while eliminating the need for specialized equipment.

[0007]The present invention is comprised of an apparatus designed to prevent power from backfeeding into a primary source of power such as a commercial power grid when a secondary source of power such as a generator is connected to existing wiring that is normally powered by the primary source of power.

[0008]The present invention includes a switching mechanism within a circuit breaker in which the switching mechanism is electrically connected with the existing wiring. The switching mechanism can be toggled between the primary source of power and the secondary source of power such that the primary source of power and the secondary source of power are always isolated from one another regardless of which source of power is currently feeding the existing wiring. This prevents the secondary source of power from backfeeding into said primary source of power and vice versa.

[0009]A circuit breaker that functions like a double pole double throw (DPDT) switch is used to isolate the commercial power grid from an external power source. When in the “on” position the circuit breaker serves as a main power input circuit breaker allowing power from the commercial power grid to feed into existing wiring. In the “off” position the commercial power grid is disconnected and isolated from the existing wiring. Instead, the switch mechanism is connected to an external power source such as a generator. The generator can be safely operated without risking power backfeed into the commercial power grid.

Problems solved by technology

As described above, this is a potentially dangerous condition for those working to repair the commercial power grid.

Images